File this under “Why didn’t I watch this earlier?” and “This is as great as they say…” Maybe I thought that a film about activism would be a bit like homework. Directed by Lizzie Borden, Born In Flames (1983) captures a moment of time – 1980s New York, in the No Wave era – but remains incredibly contemporary – feminist struggle for equality, mobilisation and organisation of different groups to achieve revolutionary goals. What I loved about it, was the documentary style narrative, and the use of montages to make sure it keeps moving, incorporating on location street footage within its lo-fi approach. Media reports intercut with government surveillance intercut with radio transmissions.
Set in an alternative future where America celebrates victory in a Democratic Socialist war, Born In Flames follows the ‘Women’s Army,’ a grassroots feminist organisation that is working toward addressing inequality and endangerment of women even within a democratic and socialist framework. The fight continues, and the film doesn’t mess around in having to couch topics in metaphors or symbolism; it is as clear and forthright as the activist characters. With the punk and no wave soundtrack, there is an energy to the movie. Red Krayola perform the track that inspired the title, there’s a live performance by The Bloods with lead singer Adele Bertei playing one of the underground DJs, and tracks like ‘New Town’ by The Slits and ‘I’ll Take You There’ by The Staple Singers.
Early performances by future director Kathryn Bigelow, actors like Eric Bogosian and Mark Boone Junior. The featured characters include pirate radio DJ Honey (played by Honey), Jean Satterfield as Adelaide Norris, the revolutionary leader of the Women’s Army, and activist and lawyer Florynce Kennedy playing a theorist.
The film is scrappy and pointed, and contains a blistering energy in its vision of rising unity and political action, right down to the remarkable final image. Available to stream on Mubi. Recommended.
VHS Tracking 